If the bill becomes law, Korea’s 4,051 positive people will receive financial support for medical expenses and cost reductions for essential services, such as transportation and use of public facilities.

While current law designates those with mental and physical impairments as “disabled,” city authorities have been conducting research with patients and medical experts since May to assess whether people living with HIV will qualify.

Research results will be sent to the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the National Assembly in November.